HOUSTON City of Immigrants

By Olsa Cano, Immigration Attorney

For the past two years, Luxcior, one of my favorite magazines, has given me a platform to discuss the latest updates on immigration law.

Previously, I have discussed various visa options for non-immigrants, options for family reunification, information on DACA, TPS, and Asylum, and I have also provided insight on the most current border issues. I often mention the flaws with our immigration system and the hope for a comprehensive immigration reform that will aid millions of deserving immigrants who contribute to our country every day. This time, however, I want to write about something different. I want to write about our great city of Houston and the immigrants that call this city home.

Houston has become my own home away from home for two decades now. As an immigrant, born and raised in Albania, I have found our city to be welcoming of immigrants and a city that offers wonderful opportunities for those eager to seek them. It has been a privilege to be an immigration attorney in Houston, helping other immigrants, like me, reach their American dream.

It is not surprising that Houston is an immigrant-friendly city. Houston has a wonderful history of embracing immigrants from the very beginning. Between the years 1865 and 1924, it became our very own Southern Ellis Island with the Port of Houston welcoming over 200,000 immigrants, mostly from Europe. Today, the number of immigrants has grown and according to the most recent U.S. Census data, more than 25% of Houston residents are immigrants with over 145 languages spoken daily in the city. That is, one in four individuals speaks a foreign language at home. What makes Houston special is its diversity and inclusion of different nationalities. Houston continues to be the most ethnic and racially diverse city in our country. People from all over the world choose Houston to visit, invest, bring families here, and also to seek refuge. Houston is a great city for refugees. With five resettlement agencies, it hosts the largest number of refugees in our country, giving an opportunity to thousands who escape war and persecution from their own countries.

Houston is a city with a generous heart. In addition to the resettlement agencies, there are numerous non-profit organizations, various international communities, and volunteers who help refugees feel at home.

Houston is the city of international trade. It is an energy city and the medical city of the world. Its success is a testament to the inclusivity of individuals from all over the world. Immigrants bring to Houston their skills and talents, their languages and cultures, and their food and traditions which make our city better for all. They bring life to our city.

Houston understands the positive impact of immigrants and celebrates them annually. Huston’s International Festival, which is held each spring, is a ten-day celebration of dance, culture, music, and food from all over the world. Everywhere you look in our city, it has the touch of immigrants. I am proud of our immigrant community, and I am privileged to be a part of it.

Since its first publication, ten years ago, LUXCIOR has celebrated and supported immigrants. Created by an immigrant, this one-of-a-kind magazine has showcased the work of immigrant communities in Houston and their success in business, art, science, medicine, and philanthropy. It has been such a joy to see fellow successful immigrants featured in the magazine. My wish for immigrants in our city and for LUXCIOR is that they continue to thrive. My wish is that other cities follow Houston’s example and welcome immigrants as their own.

Congratulations LUXCIOR on your 10-Year Anniversary! Thank you Publisher Martin Gondra for an exceptional record of tireless work and dedication in featuring our diverse city of immigrants.